An area nearly a third larger than India turned permanently arid in past three decades, research shows

Summary

Drylands now cover 40% of Earth’s land (excluding Antarctica), with an area larger than India turning arid over three decades, a UN study reveals.

This trend, driven by climate change and exacerbated by poor farming practices, poses significant risks to global food security and water resources, particularly in Africa and Asia.

By 2100, up to 60% of the global population may live in drylands.

Experts urge action, including cutting emissions, sustainable farming, and reforestation, warning of severe impacts on food security, poverty, and forced migration.

  • Flying Squid@lemmy.world
    232·
    3 days ago

    Fun fact: Lake Baikal in Russia contains 20% of the world’s surface freshwater.

    So Putin must be happy about this, unfortunately.

      • Flying Squid@lemmy.world
        82·
        3 days ago

        And probably just as polluted. But like I told someone else, better polluted water than no water at all.

        • HubertManne@moist.catsweat.com
          121·
          3 days ago

          I mean we actually have a fair amount of regulation around it due to the Great Lakes Commission but its sorta diluted by it being a combination of states and provinces over two countries. I know indiana is alwaysa troublemaker with allowing bad things on michigan.